Another good snake for beginners is the corn snake. These snakes are usually docile and easy to care for, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. While you may occasionally see a six foot long corn snake, most adult corn snakes are between three and five feet in length.
- Name: Corn snake (elaphe guttata)
- Lifespan: An average ten to fifteen years
- Normal temperature: Between seventy and eighty-five degrees Fahrenheit. These snakes are native to the southeastern United States, and do not need tropical temperatures.
Whenever possible, select a captive bred snake instead of a wild caught snake. Corn snakes do breed well in captivity, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a breeder. Look for a snake that is well fleshed and rounded, with clear eyes, a clean vent, and no visible cuts, scrapes, or parasites. Try to find an active, alert snake that is flicking its tongue.
Your corn snake will need at least twenty gallons worth of space. Try to find a tank that is long and shallow, rather than deep. Line the cage with shredded newspaper, pine bark chips, or Astroturf. Be sure that the lid of the cage is secure — corn snakes are known to be good escape artists that will push at the lid with their noses until they find a weak spot.
When heating your tank, you want to create a gradient from cooler to warmer. Use a heating pad under half the tank, or try heat tape. An overhead incandescent light bulb can create a basking spot or help create the heat gradient.
The snake will appreciate hiding spots that are just large enough to curl up in. Even a cardboard box will do! Try to provide a hiding spot at both the warmer and cooler ends of the tank. They may also like larger bark pieces to burrow under and a branch to climb on. Make sure the tank also has a large water dish — your corn snake may want to soak in the dish before shedding. Clean the bowl and change the water every day, or any time you see any matter in the water.
Your corn snake will live on mice and small rats (only for larger corn snakes). Pre-killed mice are much easier to handle and safer for your snake. Offer your snake a mouse that is as wide as the snake’s head. Younger snakes that are still growing can be fed twice a week; adult snakes can be fed once a week or once every ten days.